Collegiate Peaks Campground

At an elevation of 9,800 feet, Collegiate Peaks Campground offers a serene mountain retreat combining expansive forest cover, crisp alpine air, and the gentle murmur of Middle Cottonwood Creek. Enveloped by ponderosa pine and aspen trees, this campground’s well-spaced sites ensure privacy, while proximity to stunning hiking trails and excellent fishing spots makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Located 11 miles west of Buena Vista, Colorado, along Cottonwood Pass, this campground provides convenient access to the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area, including Denny Creek and Ptarmigan Lake Trailheads, both popular for their breathtaking landscapes and seasonal wildflowers. Anglers can enjoy brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout fishing in the creek and nearby beaver ponds, while a commercial hot springs inn just 5 miles away offers relaxation after adventure-filled days.

With 56 campsites equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, the facility caters to tents, trailers, and RVs. Drinking water is available, but no hookups or cell service are provided, reinforcing the rustic charm. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended escape, Collegiate Peaks Campground provides an ideal blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and recreational accessibility, perfect for immersing yourself in Colorado’s high-country allure.